THE PHOTOSHOP CS2 HELP DESK BOOK [Electronic resources]

Is there a quick way to remove scratches?

I'd start with the Spot Healing Brush (J) as it's a "one-click" tool. If you don't like the results, try this method: In the Options Bar, lower the Blur tool (R) settings to about 15% Strength and change the Mode to Lighten.

How do I fix dust and scratches?

It depends to some degree on the size of the blemishes. For small dust specks, I would suggest the Spot Healing Brush tool (J), the Clone Stamp tool (S), or the Dust and Scratches filter (found under Filter>Noise). For larger problems, try the Healing Brush tool, or make a feathered selection (Select>Feather once your selection is in place), and then Option-drag (PC: Alt-drag) with the Move tool (V) to cover up the problem.

How do I use the History Brush to fix blemishes? I heard of a technique that uses the History Brush to fix blemishes and scratches. How does that work?

It's actually a pretty cool technique. Here's how it works: Run the Dust & Scratches filter (found under Filter>Noise). In the History palette (Window>History), click on the History State before Dust & Scratches to "undo" the filter (this really just hides the filter). Click in the empty box to the left of the Dust & Scratches filter State. Now use the History Brush to "paint back in" the blurry snapshot, covering up the blemishes.